Virtual Autism Evaluations: A New Hope for Families in Need

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Difficulty of Obtaining an Autism Diagnosis
3. The Unique Challenges Faced by Francisco
4. The Journey to Diagnosis
5. The National Shortage of Providers
6. The Impact of Delayed Diagnosis
7. Introducing As You Are - Virtual Autism Evaluations
8. The Benefits of Virtual Screening
9. Francisco's Experience with As You Are
10. The Relief of Finally Getting Answers
11. The Expansion of As You Are

Introduction

🔍 The long journey to an autism diagnosis can be overwhelming and frustrating for parents. This article explores the challenges faced by parents and children, the impact of delayed diagnosis, and the introduction of virtual autism evaluations provided by As You Are.

The Difficulty of Obtaining an Autism Diagnosis

🔍 Many parents not only struggle with the diagnosis of autism for their child but also face significant hurdles along the way. The process of getting an official diagnosis can be arduous and time-consuming.

The Unique Challenges Faced by Francisco

🔍 Francisco, a four-year-old boy, is thriving like any other child his age. However, his journey to reach this point has been filled with both amazing accomplishments and numerous challenges.

The Journey to Diagnosis

🔍 Francisco's mother had a hunch when he was just one year old that he might have autism. But getting help and an official diagnosis proved to be an uphill battle. The waiting lists were extensive, and it took years before an appointment could be secured.

The National Shortage of Providers

🔍 A shortage of specially trained pediatricians and psychologists has led to a nationwide crisis where tens of thousands of children wait years for an autism diagnosis. The lack of accessible providers is deeply concerning and can result in delayed treatment for these children.

The Impact of Delayed Diagnosis

🔍 Delayed diagnosis can have a lasting impact on children with autism. The earlier the diagnosis, the better the chances of utilizing the brain's neuroplasticity for effective intervention. Waiting for months or even years for a diagnosis can lead to missed developmental opportunities.

Introducing As You Are - Virtual Autism Evaluations

🔍 As You Are, a company founded by Kayla Wagner during the COVID-19 pandemic, offers virtual autism evaluations as a solution to the long waiting times for in-person assessments. With a team of specially trained pediatricians, they conduct comprehensive evaluations all online.

The Benefits of Virtual Screening

🔍 Numerous studies have shown that doctors can reliably identify autism through telehealth platforms. Although in-person evaluations may still be necessary for children with subtle symptoms, virtual screening provides a quicker and more accessible alternative for many.

Francisco's Experience with As You Are

🔍 Francisco's mother decided to give As You Are a chance after seeing a Facebook ad for their virtual evaluations. The decision proved to be life-changing for her and her son, as they were finally able to receive an assessment in a matter of weeks.

The Relief of Finally Getting Answers

🔍 Finally receiving an autism diagnosis brings a sense of relief and hope for parents. It is a pivotal moment where they feel heard and understood, knowing that their child can now receive the necessary therapy and support.

The Expansion of As You Are

🔍 As You Are, currently operational in ten states, is rapidly growing. Their aim is to be operational in all 50 states by the end of the year. They provide comprehensive care-side kits to families, assisting with insurance coverage and connecting them with services in their area.

Highlights

• The long journey and difficulties of obtaining an autism diagnosis
• The unique challenges faced by Francisco and his family
• The national shortage of providers leading to delayed diagnoses
• The impact of delayed diagnosis on a child's development
• Introducing As You Are, a company offering virtual autism evaluations
• The benefits of virtual screening for faster and more accessible assessments
• Francisco's positive experience with As You Are
• The relief parents feel upon finally receiving an autism diagnosis
• The expansion plans of As You Are to reach families in all 50 states

FAQ

Q: How long does it typically take to get an autism diagnosis? A: Due to a national shortage of providers, some families wait upwards of three years to receive an autism diagnosis.

Q: Can autism be reliably identified through virtual evaluations? A: Yes, several studies have shown that doctors can accurately identify autism through telehealth platforms, although in-person evaluations may be necessary for children with subtle symptoms.

Q: What is As You Are? A: As You Are is a company that offers virtual autism evaluations, providing an alternative to the long waiting times for in-person assessments.

Q: How can delayed diagnosis impact a child with autism? A: Delayed diagnosis can result in missed developmental opportunities, as younger children have more neuroplasticity. Early intervention is crucial for effective treatment.

Q: Where is As You Are currently operational? A: As You Are is currently operational in ten states, with plans to expand and be operational in all 50 states by the end of the year.

Resources:

• As You Are